Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 16th August 2023) below:
Airshow
It’s good to hear Torbay Airshow is set for take-off in 2024 after a review by Councillors of how it will operate and be funded.
When the first airshow took place, it was expected revenue from sponsorship and commercial activities would grow over the years, reducing the cost for local taxpayers. The 2023 Airshow needed a contribution from Torbay Council taxpayers of £195,000 towards a total cost of £305,000, although it is worth noting a study concluded there is a £15 return for our bay’s economy for every £1 spent on it.
The review report includes several suggestions to maximise both the Airshow’s appeal and income, such as developing the event to include other attractions which complement the flying displays, whilst also providing additional revenue and enjoyment. They are welcome and should see the airshow flying high for years to come.
Small Boats
It’s the call every Home Minister dreads to receive. People are missing in the channel and have been for some hours.
I remember receiving one in 2021 when dozens were missing, with hopes they were still alive fading. We all hope there will not be another tragedy after the latest loss of life, but if the deadly business of smuggling people across the Channel in small boats continues, it is inevitable there will be.
Breaking the business model which drives the small boats crisis is not about lacking compassion, but wanting resettlement to be for those fleeing persecution, not leaving France. Just processing lots of claims won’t do this and neither will unrealistic suggestions we should offer everyone a route to the UK. What smashes the small boats business model is the Rwanda Plan. It sees us work with a nation experienced in refugee resettlement, ready to provide a new home for those genuinely fleeing persecution, whilst making clear you can’t buy your way to Britain. The sooner flights start, the sooner the trade in the Channel, along with the tragedy it brings, ends.
Wilko
Last week brought worrying news for those who work at Torquay’s Wilko store, with the company entering administration.
The chain started back in 1930, with a single store in Leicester, but now has 400 stores nationally and 12,500 workers. There have been some encouraging rumours about other retail chains potentially being interested in some of the stores, but this is speculation.
The Department for Work and Pensions is preparing (if necessary) to support staff from Wilko in finding other jobs or accessing Universal Credit, as they do when any large company enters administration. Any staff members living locally are also welcome to get in touch with my team and I at [email protected] or via 01803 214 989.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries are on: Friday 18th August 10am till 12pm at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD and Saturday 3rd September 10am till 12pm at St Martin's Church Barton Hill Road, Torquay, TQ2 8JA.
For an appointment you can either email me at [email protected] or leave a message on 01803 214989, surgeries are for personal queries from residents they would like me to help them with. There are also drop-in sessions from 10am till 1pm, Monday to Friday at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD where a member of my team is available to assist residents with urgent queries.
